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The great imitator--still today! A case of meningovascular syphilis affecting the posterior circulation
Jochen Bäuerle1, Anna Zitzmann1, Karl Egger2
1Department of Neurology, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
Abstract:
Cerebral ischemia due to meningovascular syphilis is rare and more frequently affects the anterior circulation than the posterior circulation. We describe clinical features and imaging studies of a 50-year-old patient with Parinaud syndrome and a syphilitic dorsal midbrain infarction. Brain magnetic resonance imaging indicated vasculitis of the posterior circulation. The diagnosis of meningovascular syphilis was established by serum and cerebrospinal fluid examinations. Although rare, because of the high impact on treatment, clinicians should always be aware of meningovascular syphilis in the differential diagnosis of stroke, particularly in young and male patients with cryptogenic stroke.
Insights
Meningovascular syphilis, a rare cause of stroke, can affect the posterior circulation, leading to conditions like Parinaud syndrome. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of this syphilitic brain infarction.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Neurology
Background:
- Meningovascular syphilis is an uncommon cause of cerebral ischemia.
- It typically affects the anterior circulation more than the posterior circulation.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old patient presented with Parinaud syndrome and dorsal midbrain infarction.
- Brain MRI revealed vasculitis affecting the posterior circulation.
Findings:
- Serum and cerebrospinal fluid tests confirmed meningovascular syphilis.
- The patient's stroke was attributed to syphilitic infection of brain blood vessels.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider meningovascular syphilis in stroke differentials, especially in young males with cryptogenic strokes.
- Awareness of this rare condition is vital for appropriate and timely treatment, significantly impacting patient outcomes.
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